This One Pot Kielbasa Pasta is the ultimate weeknight dinner—creamy, cheesy, smoky, and packed with flavor in every bite. With tender bowtie pasta, juicy smoked sausage, a velvety cheese sauce, and just one pan to clean, it’s comfort food made easy.
Perfect for busy nights when you don’t want to juggle multiple pots and pans, this one-pot wonder is hearty, family-friendly, and ready in under 30 minutes. The smoky sausage pairs beautifully with the creamy tomato sauce, while cheddar cheese melts right into the pasta for a dish that’s both simple and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for kids, guests, or just yourself, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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One Pot Convenience: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
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Family-Friendly: A dish both kids and adults will love.
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Creamy & Cheesy: Packed with gooey melted cheddar for ultimate comfort.
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Quick Weeknight Meal: Ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish.
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Customizable: Easy to swap ingredients and make it your own.
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Crowd-Pleaser: Great for potlucks, gatherings, or casual dinners.
Ingredient Breakdown
Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Used to brown the sausage and sauté onions, adding a subtle richness.
Smoked Turkey or Chicken Sausage (1 lb): Brings smoky, savory flavor without being too heavy.
Onion (1 ½ cups, diced): Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Provides bold aromatic flavor.
Chicken Broth (2 cups): Forms the base of the sauce, infusing savory richness.
Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14 oz): Adds acidity and balance to the creamy sauce.
Heavy Cream (½ cup): Makes the sauce rich, smooth, and velvety.
Bowtie Pasta (8 oz): The perfect pasta shape to hold the creamy sauce.
Cheddar Cheese (1 ½ cups, shredded): Melts into the pasta for cheesy indulgence.
Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.
Green Onions (optional garnish): Adds color and freshness before serving.
Pro Tips
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Use Quality Sausage: Smoked turkey or chicken sausage gives the best flavor without excess grease.
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Don’t Overcook Pasta: Keep an eye on it to maintain tender but firm texture.
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Add Cheese Slowly: Stir in cheddar gradually for a smoother sauce.
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Taste as You Go: Adjust salt and pepper after adding cheese to balance flavors.
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Finish with Garnish: Fresh herbs or green onions brighten the richness.
Ingredient Swaps & Variations
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Different Sausage: Swap turkey or chicken sausage for beef, or even andouille for extra spice.
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Cheese Options: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend for different textures.
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Gluten-Free Pasta: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make it GF-friendly.
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Veggie Add-Ins: Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or Cajun seasoning for heat.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with a side of garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the sauce.
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Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for balance.
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For gatherings, serve straight from the skillet family-style for a casual, cozy feel.
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Add a sprinkle of Parmesan before serving for an extra cheesy punch.
Make Ahead + Storage Tips
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Make Ahead: Chop onions, slice sausage, and shred cheese ahead of time for quick assembly.
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Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Freeze: Freeze cooled pasta in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat with a splash of broth or cream.
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Reheat: Warm on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add extra cream if needed to revive the sauce.
Cultural or Historical Notes
Kielbasa, a traditional Polish sausage, has been adapted into countless American comfort food recipes. Its smoky flavor blends seamlessly with creamy pasta dishes, making it a favorite for fusion-style meals like this one-pot pasta. By combining Old World sausage with modern convenience, this dish highlights how classic ingredients can be reinvented for today’s busy kitchens.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use regular kielbasa instead of turkey or chicken?
Yes, kielbasa works beautifully, but it will be richer and slightly greasier.
Q2: Do I need to cook the pasta separately?
No, that’s the beauty of this recipe—the pasta cooks right in the broth and cream.
Q3: Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely! Add cayenne, red pepper flakes, or spicy sausage for extra heat.
Q4: What if the sauce is too thick?
Just add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up before serving.
Q5: Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger pot. Cooking time may increase slightly.
One Pot Kielbasa Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add diced onion and sauté for 3 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Return sausage to the pot. Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and uncooked pasta. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, or until pasta is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with green onions and serve warm.
